Jehovah's Witness Convert

Lou Everett, Jr.

Lou Everett was one of Jehovah's Witnesses for more than 14 years. During that time, he served as a full-time minister as well as other major roles within the congregation. Lou's journey to the Catholic Church was truly a rough road traveled.

From Jehovah's Witnesses to Catholicism: My Journey

In 2005, I find myself inside a Catholic church for midnight mass. My future wife, born and raised in the Catholic Church, by my side; silently showing me something that I never thought I'd see or feel. At the age of 31, a realization set in that I never would have expected to occur – thus begins another part of my journey to the Church, my home.

Peering back into my childhood, I realize that my journey actually began as a child. My father was in the military so our family traveled around quite a bit. I was born in San Francisco, California while my father was stationed there in the Army in 1974. Both of my parents are 'cradle' Catholics and had very different experiences with the Catholic Church. Throughout the various moves from place to place, my parents were contacted by Jehovah's Witnesses. Their message seemed to touch my parents enough to eventually become baptized in 1984 as Jehovah's Witnesses.

Growing up as one of Jehovah's Witnesses was difficult at times, however also very rewarding. As a child I felt a part of something much larger than myself, than the world, than my parents. I felt a part of an organization that seemed to truly care for me and my family, a part of an organization that was teaching me 'the truth'. Standing up for my beliefs as one of Jehovah's Witnesses made me feel good inside, knowing that I was being loyal to my God. At a very young age I began to give 'talks' (sermons) in front of the congregation – quickly learning scripture. My heart was drawn to go out publically from door-to-door preaching this 'good news' that I was learning. I just loved meeting new people and teaching them things that God was teaching me! Thus, in 1987, at the age of 13, I was baptized as an ordained minister in the Watchtower organization as one of Jehovah's Witnesses.

As we all know, the teenage years are a difficult time regardless of one's religious views. Mine were no exception, by any means. Inquisitive as most at my age, I began to question many of my beliefs and what I was taught up until then. Questions like, 'How do we know that the Watchtower Society, Jehovah's Witnesses, is the only true religion?', 'Why is it that the history of Jehovah's Witnesses only goes back so far, thus creating a huge gap in the connection to the apostles?'. These and many other questions began to truly eat away inside me at a very young age. The difficulty with having such questions as one of Jehovah's Witnesses, is that a person who begins to ask such questions is then 'marked' as 'bad association', or even reprimanded for questioning the 'Organization'. So I held all these questions, along with many more concerns I had, deep inside.

Feeling that I had nowhere to go, I turned to drugs and alcohol at the age of 15 – spinning my life out of control for a good year. I began to completely withdraw from the 'Organization', from my friends, and more importantly from God. I began to self-medicate, hoping all of the questions would be answered. Fortunately, I had a good enough relationship with my parents to be able to come to them with this drug issue I had created for myself. I truly desired to get back in the good graces of my God and my family. With that, it is common practice as one of Jehovah's Witnesses to confess things like this to the 'Elders' of the congregation. With the encouragement of my parents, I did so – resulting in what is called 'Private Reproof'. This disciplinary action limits my responsibilities in the congregation, including praying publically, reading scripture in front of the congregation, and giving 'talks' (sermons). While I understood the discipline, I was truly distraught knowing I could not serve my congregation. However, I took this time to try and strengthen my relationship with God and my family. Fortunately, I was able to overcome my battle with drug abuse and my responsibilities in the congregation were restored.

Over the next several years, I dedicated myself to the 'organization' by becoming a 'Full-time Pioneer' (minister) at the age of 18, was appointed a 'Ministerial Servant' (Deacon) in my 20's, and had many responsibilities in the congregation. Through it all, however, there seemed like something was missing – an emptiness of sorts. This feeling always concerned me, as I feared telling anyone about it, so I prayed about it constantly hoping for an answer.

In 1994, I married a sweet Jehovah's Witness woman whose desire to serve seemed to match mine. We both served the congregation as much as we could in the ministry. We met so many wonderful people and gained so much joy in service! A couple of years later, in 1996, we gave birth to a beautiful son who just lit up our world. However, that empty feeling, that hole, still existed within me – once again leaving me confused. So many questions were still in my heart that just didn't seem to have any plausible answers. It was the birth of my son that helped me to make a decision that changed my life forever.

Realization set in with me that I needed to do something with this feeling, with these questions that have haunted me for years. I decided to take a break from my responsibilities in the congregation for a while and focus on research-biblical and historical research. This is when I began to totally engulf myself in nothing but the Bible and its history. I stopped attending the meetings at the Kingdom Hall (church), and prayed harder than I have ever prayed – praying that God would guide me in the right direction and fill this emptiness inside of me. This break did not come welcome by the elders in my congregation.

One morning I received a call from an Elder of our congregation, a dear friend of mine. It also happens that he was serving at 'Bethel' (Watchtower headquarters in New York). He expressed his concern for me and my spirituality and offered to help me in any way he could, and offered to come visit my home. Of course, I understood his concern for my spirituality because I was concerned about it myself. I accepted his offer to come visit. This visit was a pivotal point in my journey.

The day came for my long-awaited visit from my friend! I was very excited to see him! Initially we sat and chatted about some lost time, drank some coffee, and just enjoyed the company of one another. The subject then switched to me and my spirituality. I expressed my feelings and my questions but also my fear of sharing those because I didn't want any negative recourse as a result. He seemed to understand and offered to be my sound-board and wanted to help answer any concerns I had, in hopes to strengthen me. This was a relief for me! I then began to let it all out and express every concern I had and explained that I had this empty feeling inside for years. We discussed scripture, and discussed apparent conflicts between scripture and the teachings of the Watchtower Society. He listened to everything I was feeling! This was a load of my shoulders! I thanked him for visiting, we hugged, and he left. This was the last time I spoke with or saw him again.

A week later I received a phone call from another Elder informing me that, because of my views, they have decided to 'disassociate' (ex-communicate) me from the organization. He stated that because of the questions, concerns, and views that I expressed to my Elder friend, that I made it clear that I no longer wanted to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. This decision on the part of the Elders devastated me! By disassociating me from the organization, this would mean that my parents, brother, sister, and all of my friends (ones I have known since I was a child) were no longer allowed to speak to me nor visit with me at any time. That empty feeling, that hole, just got larger – so large I felt that I had no one. I was spiritually alone – desolate.

Over the next several years, I became angry at religion as a whole – in particular Jehovah's Witnesses and organized religion. I dabbled in paganism, Hinduism, Buddhism, agnosticism, and eventually just gave up and began feeling there was no God and began to study Atheism. Attempting to fill this hole, this empty feeling, just made it larger and larger.

In 1999, a beautiful baby girl was added to our family and she added so much joy to my life! So now I sat back and saw this picture: I had a nice home, married, I had two beautiful children, and I was alive. So why was I so unhappy? Why did I still have this empty hole inside? I couldn't understand it, and began to give up. This turned me angry and resentful. I began to drink alcohol heavily and dabble in marijuana. I joined a metal-rock band and became part of the music scene – all in hopes of filling this void. As happens many times due to behavior like this, my marriage fell apart, and in 2004 I found myself divorced, and living by myself and seeing my children every other weekend. It was all gone. I was empty and alone.

In March of 2005, I met a woman named Sherri who would change my life. It seemed as though her and I had similar interests, so we began dating. Very quickly one could see that she was deeply inclined toward God. While she didn't talk much about her religious beliefs, she showed it in almost everything she did. I couldn't help but start a discussion on religion with her, as she intrigued me. She told me that she was Catholic! I think to myself: "Of all religions, she HAD to be Catholic!" (This feeling coming from my roots as one of Jehovah's Witnesses, since they are extremely anti-Catholic.)

However, after getting to know Sherri, I fell in love and proposed marriage. Being that she is Catholic, I found myself going along with her through the Pre-Cana program to get married in the Catholic Church. Again, I wasn't too sure about this, but it made Sherri happy and that's what I wanted. But, I have to admit, I was extremely curious how this all works.

From the first meeting we had with our Priest, Father Toomey, I was truly impressed by him! He shared with me his journey to the priesthood and had extensive discussions with me on my views and my experiences with Jehovah's Witnesses. I couldn't believe that he didn't judge me for my questions, my concerns, and the expression of that empty hole I have inside! He just listened, smiled, and truly understood! At one of our discussions, Father Toomey said that he wanted to give me a gift because he thought I would enjoy it. He handed me a book entitled, The Teaching of Christ – A Catholic Catechism for Adults. He said, "You may not decide to read it right away, and that's okay. But I thought of you and wanted you to have it." I accepted this book as a kind gesture. When I got home, I placed it in my night stand and forgot about it – but only for a while.

With Christmas around the corner, I was getting excited to spend it with Sherri. Sherri mentioned to me that she wanted to go to midnight mass on Christmas Eve and would like for me to go with her. At first, I was taken back with hesitation because I had such a disdain for organized religion at this point. I didn't want to disappoint Sherri, so I accepted this invitation. While it was difficult for me at the time, I admitted to Sherri that this event was one of the most inspiring things I have ever encountered!

In December of 2006, Sherri and I were married at St. Matthews Catholic Church and it was an amazing day! Our journey brought us there that day and Father Toomey performed the ceremony just exquisitely. Little did I know that another part of my journey was about to begin.

One night, in 2009, while out with friends, I got so intoxicated with alcohol that I passed out while walking, fell and hit my head, causing me to have a Grade 3 concussion. The doctors told me I was lucky to be alive, as my blood alcohol level was 1.11 when they measured it the morning AFTER the accident! The weeks of recovery following my accident were very reflective. Under doctors' orders to stay put and not do too much moving around, I had a lot of time on my hands. I remember sitting on my couch wondering what I was going to do with this time. I began to ponder on my relationship with Sherri, and just how blessed I was to have such an amazing partner who was sticking by me, regardless of where I was going. I pondered on how much she trusted in her God, and how deeply she felt about her faith, and just how much I yearned for that. It was at that moment that I remembered the book that Father Toomey gave to me as a gift over three years earlier. I just had to find it! I just had to read it!

As I began to read this book, it was as if there was something inside of me beginning to sew up that empty space. The words turned into pictures, and pictures turned into feelings, and feelings turned into faith. Learning of this capital 'T' Tradition of the Church and the apostolic succession just completely overwhelmed me. I was drawn to learn more! I expressed to Sherri the desire to attend church with her because of what I was reading. I know just how happy she was for this! As I began to go to and observe the Mass, an indescribable feeling began to take hold of me. That empty feeling; that hollow hole began to be filled. Realization set in that, every single time I was at Mass, I was in the presence of something so much higher than me yet could feel the yearning for His want for me to be closer. There was no other place I would rather be!

In researching how to become part of the Church, I came across information on the RCIA program and just HAD to do it. What an amazing and insightful journey! I completed the RCIA program, and was welcomed into the Church on Easter Vigil 2010! Being able to take in the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ through the Eucharist is a moment that cannot be expressed into words. I just thank my God for guiding me along on this journey and helping me see His face through so many people and events throughout my life! I currently serve as a Eucharist Minister in our local parish, which amazes me every time I serve. Coming out of an organization that attempted to limit my access to God, and into His one true Church where He exists and is freely and readily available, fills that empty place I carried inside for years! Thanks be to God!

Lou is currently in the process of spreading his conversion story in hopes of reaching others with a similar background as Jehovah's Witnesses. Visit his website at www.ourcatholicconversion.com.

If you have found this story helpful in your spiritual journey we hope you will consider sharing it. Have feedback or would like to share your story? Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I always feel sorry for my relatives who are 7th day adventists; the head of the household walked out on Catholicism many, many years ago and took his family down that hill with him, all the way to great grandchildren. How sad that they all miss the true mark now. . .

I was just curious as to how you could be married in the Catholic Church when you had already married in 1994 and also had two children. Was your first marriage not considered as a valid marriage in the eyes of the Catholic Church? What has happened to your two children? Did you have to get an annulment from your first wife?

THANK YOU FOR SUCH A WONDERFUL STORY. SO WELL WRITTEN. I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU AND YOUR WIFE. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW HAPPY SHE WAS THE DAY YOU CAME INTO THE CHURCH. I WAS AWAY FROM THE CHURCH FOR MANY YEARS, BUT CAME BACK ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO. I UNDERSTAND THE HOLE YOU HAD, AND HOW BEING A PART OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH FILLED THAT HOLE. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND BE WITH YOU AS YOU SPREAD YOUR STORY AND HOPEFULLY HELP SO MANY OTHERS WHO ARE SEARCHING.

Hi, Lou! Great to know about you. I also am a convert from the JWs. I left in 1993 and entered the Catholic Church in 1996. I am the editor-in-chief of the Catholic Lane (http://catholiclane.com). Sometimes I have to pinch myself! A third-generation JW in charge of an online Catholic magazine -- God is so full of surprises. I'd love for you to contact me.

My friend, Jeffery Schwehm, is the founder of The Fellowship of Catholic Ex-JWs. You can find them online here: http://www.catholicxjw.com/ They have a message board to give support to ex-JWs who are making their way into the Catholic Church and Catholics who have family members in the JWs.

Everyone, please pray for JWs -- unless you have been in there, you just have no idea how dark and unhappy it is in that organization.

@Paula. Thank you for your questions! As for my first marriage, I went through the annulment process through the Church. My two children are doing great! My son is 14 and lives with his mother. My daughter is 12 and decided to live with me and my wife. My daughter is going through the RCIC (rite for christian initation for children). She is going through preperation for first communion as we speak.

Nice meeting you Lou! And welcome to the Catholic Family! We're so glad that your emptiness was filled-up. God's blessings will continue to pour until it's overflowing in you. God bless you and your family!

@Lou,welcome home to the catholic church , the church Jesus founded.Amazing story from minister in JW to Eucharist Minister in the Holy Catholic Church! wow
The Eucharist is my favorite part of mass, I love receiving Jesus,if non catholics knew what they were missing. God bless and keep on evangelizing.

You know, I find it very interesting that their are "Anti-Catholic" organizations and denominations, but no "Anti-Baptist", "Anti-Methodist" or "Anti-Calvinist" ones. Sure, their are people who are slightly biased against Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses, but never "Anti-" ect. Anti-Christian is the closest they get, but that is really general.

I am a 16 year old Jehovah's Witness who has been raised in the religion all my life. I sincerely loved being a part of Jehovah's Witnesses but over the past few years I have been forming all these questions and beginning to feel the emptiness that you spoke about in your story. A very dear friend of mine is Catholic and he radiates the fact that he has a good relationship with God. I've been feeling guilty that I have been considering conversion to become Catholic and have been especially concerned about how my family will react. So thank you so much for sharing your story with us and giving me hope that I'm making the right decision in my journey to find God.

I just had my 2nd child and required an immediate blood transfusion, due to a hemorage that is still unexplained by the doctors! This event took place almost 6 mths ago and I'm still not at peace with my decision as I was raised a J.W I can honestly say that this event has led me to strongly believe that everything I've believed in has been a lie. I see a psychiatrist and a couple of therapist, I also take medication for postpartum depression. I'm glad I ran into this site. I have vivid memories of always being attracted to the cross, rosary's, and always feeling like it was a symbol of God... it will be a big step to try to find what religion or belief works for me to enrich my existence in this world, I do know that I have a lot of work ahead of me. I too would love to fill that hole that has lived in me for a very long time, Lou I think its so interesting that we had this event happen at the same time as a birth of our children. Thank you Lou for your inspiring and hopefull story.

I am studying to be a Jehovah's witness and what they teach is from the bible and the truth. Most people cannot live a life that Jesus Christ lived so the look for a way out and turn to false religion. I feel sorry for you guys since it was Satan that led you to the church and not God. I was Catholic before!!

im sad for you leaving the truth,,,you know jehovah is the only true god,,,and in the bible it says to obstain from blood,, and it also says to not call people father , rabi ect. ,,if people really meditate on the cross issue,,,how is it a symbol of god..?.if jesus was stoned to death, would you put a stone on your church ? or same if he was shot,? the bible says not to make images of anything, and wearing a cross isnt going to protect you, jesus never taught us to look to images,

@Wendy - I believe you're referring to "thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image," which Merriam-Webster defines as "an object (such as a statue) that is worshipped as a god or in place of a god."

I personally don't worship the cross I wear. I don't believe that it has magical powers in of itself. Nor do I love my wedding ring. I don't get up early to go to work for my wedding ring, nor do I stay up late after a long day to talk with my wedding ring, listen to the many details of its day. I love of my wife and Jesus Christ, and these things--my cross, my ring--are physical reminders of that love, reminders that I can touch and cherish throughout the day.

Does not make sense. A cross & idols are images & the 20 commandments say not to worship them. Would u wear a coffin around your neck? Also, how can you say Jesus is God when the Bible clearly states God is the almighty one & only God, the creator of our universe & states that Jesus is God's son? Jehovah's witnesses are not the ones that say to avoid/abstain from blood..The Bible states this in Acts 15:20. Also Leviticus 17:14. “You must not eat the blood of any sort of flesh, because the soul of every sort of flesh is its blood. Anyone eating it will be cut off.” God viewed the soul, or life, as being in the blood and belonging to him.
I don't agree in the story this person wrote. If you felt lost, why didn't you seek answers or help with the elders. I know that in every congregation, everyone is more than happy to be there & answer all questions along with the Bible, not just their opinions. Jehovah Witness is not an easy religion to follow, why? Because they do not sugar coat anything in the Bible . They follow what is said in the Bible 100% & follow Jesus's examples he left us while on earth. Not every human is willing to follow the Bible 100% & these are the persons after doing wrong over & over come back & say negative things about Jehovah's Witnesses & take an easier route. For the person that asked why we call God Jehovah, read Psalm 83:18 18 May people know that you, whose name is Jehovah,+You alone are the Most High over all the earth.

You're definitely passionate about your beliefs. I see that statues and other symbols of faith are bothersome to you and other JW believers. For me they are only reminders of the love I have for my Creator. For example, when I look at pictures of my departed grandparents I have fond memories of them. Hopefully you can understand that it is my love for them and certainly not the picture itself. Having a relationship with our Lord does not require a specific name or assistance from another person. Not sure what you mean by sugar coat. However, I do know fairytales when I hear them. I remember hearing JW members claiming only they were going to heaven. I also heard JW members on the street say that people can read a WT publication if they're really busy instead of reading Scripture. A story about end times is not a substitute for the pure Word and or prayer. Also, the Word of God does not need additional script or people to interpret Truth. Final judgment will make evident what's in all of our hearts. God be with you!!!

I'm catholic, i feel extremely happy for U Guys who have been guided by our Holy Mother Mary all the way to her son's house. keep always in mind what jesus said to peter in Aramaic: "You are Kepha and on this very kepha I will build my Church [Matt. 16:18] which means You are peter and upon this Rock i will build my church and the gates of hell will NOT prevail against it. SO U my friends gotta be really proud of U 2 are standing on the very Rock of allmighty God, neither protestants or JW's barely new sects will separate U all from God.... the most important gift ever given to Human Kind,God's children... Eucharist. BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST....

Wow!! I'm not really blown away by some of these remarks but it's kind of crazy that WE all claim to be of a christian faith & SOME of us have the nerve to judge one another. It's quite simple to me - God /Jehovah/Allah or whatever the bible refers to him as was & still is about us loving one another regardless to our preferences. Everyone will always have their own interpretations of scripture- seems like some of us go waaay into left field w/them. Once again, that is part of our human nature to make mistakes or not truly understand. NO ONE will ever be like God or Jesus I don't care what "religion" or "belief" you belong to / claim. Please know that when other people read your comments & see how the God you serve is moving in your life (by reading how you respond & treat others) it is this that shows & tells a lot. WE are suppose to draw people in & to him - how might we do this if we all claim to not only luv him but are sooo deep & inconsiderate of others preferences? Don't think one religion is better than the other or God only appears or shines on a certain group versus the other. Really? That's a bunch of nonsense & that can't be love. I think that the original author's intention was to share his personal experience in case it might identify w/another & help them in some type of way. Such a shame that God fearing folks are on here judging one another & displaying hate. How can there be prejudice amongst christians?? WOW That seems like a great topic of discussion. I find one thing that everyone has in common is "hate" & for all you bible-thumpers & verse throwing folks ( more than sure you all know better than that). The worst thing you can do is represent being a part of God's love in this way. I have a simple understanding - WE all love God we all are sinners & fall short some time or another - we all ask for forgiveness & try to do better. We show love respect & help each other if possible. Now go & represent him in a godly manner. Luv yall & please pray for me & I will do the same for you no matter what religion. #peoplegetonmynervessometimes

I am a jw and I am only 13 years of age. To find this and from someone of your stature I would expect more. You present all these presumptuous accusations and insultations towards us. How could someone stray from the truth in such a terrible and drastically horrific way. The end is near , if you ever decide to return to Jehovah he will welcome you with open arms. I feel it is your wife's teachings that converted you and that you yourself still have a hidden subversal love for Jehovah god our father and sovereign.

Young man, I applaud your faith in your religion and it's doctrines but to for you to state/imply that the author would it should have to have a 'subversal love' for God, is both ridiculous and offensive...regardless of the faith to which you subscribe.

I am in no way an extremely religious person but I feel that I am spiritual enough to be able to interpret that Jesus' message, no matter the denomination, boils down to what amounts to The Golden Rule which we all should've been taught in grammar school.

As well, I believe that regardless of your religion, whether it be Catholic, JW, Baptist, Jewish etc....is that God probably had no concern for WHERE you pray/worship Him, as long as you are worshiping Him.

If God has no concern where we worship Him as long as we are worshipping Him, then He would not have established His Church.

Clearly God has a will, and that will that we will be one body. The Gospels is not just a collection of what Christ said, it is primarily about Christ as Son of God and about the will of God which is expressed in what He said and did.

Well, that is interesting..I grew up a Catholic, went to Catholic, and was not taught the bible at all from my Catholic priests, nuns, etc. It was what the Pope said, and if I asked a question, it was never ever answered from the bible. I used to shut the door on the JW people, until one day I listened. What they discussed was simple, and from MY catholic bible..then the KJV..it all made such sense..for instance what God's name was, and how he has a purpose for the earth and what our future is..no nun, or priest ever shared this with me. WHen my dad died, they wanted to charge for the funeral, and he had been giving to the church for over 40 years...I was through with Catholics, and religion until I talked to the JW's. Not all people have the correct understanding of their teachings, and I admit I did not either. 90% of what I was told was in fact not true..I tried to prove them wrong...but could not as every answer came from the Bible...i could not argue with God's word...I am not brain washed, and they do not hate, nor teach to hate Catholics. Many people in the Kingdom Hall I go to weer Baptists, Catholics, Methodists, Jews, that had the same unanswered questions I did...If being a Catholic is what you want to do, then fine..but don''t spread lies just because you are doing something else.

I converted to the JWs in the 1970s. I can honestly say that the authors depiction of that society is right on target. I sometimes read accounts that sound made up; he is telling it like it is. I left the Jws in April 2012 and am trying to make my way back to the Catholic Church. Pray for me.

I'm a JW and my father was a catholic. At his funeral the catholic priest said that death can be your friend, but the Bible says that death is an enemy. How can a priest of the church be so ignorant? I learned real truths from the Bible in one month with JW's, much more than 34 years as a catholic. The Bible IS God's Word. Catholicism doesn't even come close to what it really teaches. The blind are leading the blind.

Not all Gods are the same. And there is worship He finds pleasing and falsehearted worship that He wouldn't. Jehovah of the Witnesses is one single god who created Jesus/Michael as a lesser being and uses an impersonal holy spirit to get the job done. Mainstream Christianity's Jehovah is a triune God who is comprised of 3 persons- Father, Son, Holy Spirit all 3 equal to God because they "are" God. Finally there is Allah who is Wildly different than the Christian Jehovah in that he doesnt have a son according to the Koran (ours does- Jesus) and is known also as the "greatest deceiver" in the Qu'ran. I'm sorry but I will not bow down to anything that deceives because it is of Satan, the father of all lies.

Born into Muslim family in North Africa.
Took me 40 years in the wilderness before our Lord and Saviour called me. I got baptized into the Catholic faith six years ago. My only regret is as expressed by St Augustine " Oh beauty so ancient, so pure, have I loved you too late."

Thank you Doctor. I forwarded this link to all christian and non christian friends.

distressing to say the least. I grew up in the Catholic faith, when I was 7 it came out that I had been molested by an older boy in our church for the last 2 years. Half the people in the church said I was lying and the devil was making me lie. Therefore they had to exercise the evil from me. They brought my big brother too who had testified against the boy (he'd walked in on me being molested and told our mother the next morning). We were then shunned from the church because my mom refused to let them perform an exorcism on her 7 year old daughter and 10 year old son. Then town we lived in was mostly catholic, and we were continually harassed by the cops and other supposed church members. Even kids at school were told to be mean to us! How is this loving!? My mother tried to talk to the priest and ask him to help me cope, he refused to speak with me. I asked too many questions he said, I talked too much. And I admit, I am extremely talkative, but saying that to a child that needs you is a horrible thing to do.

After we left the catholic church, my mother had a nervous breakdown and began to beat my brother and I, we tried becoming regular mainstream Christians (Babtist mostly as we moved to the south) and people in the church saw my mother hit us and said nothing. They saw us punched and kicked and did nothing. My mother was reported to child welfare one time, by a friend who was a former witness, and that was the only time!

I grew up thinking my molestation was my fault, and never received counseling for it. I was scared to death to be in a relationship, and had to force myself to even let people touch me like in a hug or a hand shake. No one in any church I went to ever helped me deal with this. Yet through it all, I still had faith in God and I prayed for someone to love me for who I am and who would accept that I can't always be affectionate due to my childhood trauma. I had dated before, but always been dumped when I wouldn't pursue a "physical relationship" I was eventually forced into having sex by a boyfriend because I wanted to be a "normal girl" and not lose him. I regretted it immediately and broke up with him a month later.

Fast forward 2 years, and a friend invited me to a party, and I met a young man who was kind and loving. He didn't take advantage of me when I got drunk, and when another guy at the party tried to drag mez drunken and barely able to walk, into a back room, this young man told him no, leave her alone! She is drunk its wrong to try and take advantage!

He and I talked the whole night, and he made sure I sobered up. He stayed longer than intended to make sure I got home safely. We eventually started dating, and I was, through his love and patience, able to learn to love someone, and to learn to accept hugs and hand shakes even from perfect strangers!

He was so patient with me that we didn't even kiss until dating for almost 2 months! Most men would have gotten mad at me for my aloofness.

It turned out that he was raised as a Jehovah's Witness until he was 15, then his mother stopped going and he did too. She had a petty argument with her younger sister and refuses to forgive her to this day!

We have been together for 8 years, and last year, at my urging, we started going to a Kingdom Hall (church) and studying with Jehovah's Witnesses. We had long wanted to marry, but had never been able to afford it. My mother refused to pay for a wedding, and his parents couldn't afford it. We expressed our desire to marry to the Witnesses, and they helped us!

We were married by an elder of the church, and he married us for free! We'd tried to get married before, but every pastor or priest wanted to charge us an exorbitant amount of money to marry us. The witnesses not only married us for free, but helped us to get our marriage license, a dress, and a suit because I was unable to work due to my Crohn's Disease, and my husband is my care taker, and could only work part time. They also gave us a place to hold our wedding and even brought the food and decorations!

Tell me, what other religion would help a young couple this much? What other religion would do this? When my husband's father lost his job this year, no one in the Kingdom Hall cared that Jose is catholic, everyone offered him work! And he is now able to work part time every week and go back to school to get his GED (he is a Mexican immigrant) with their help! They have even offered him free tutoring!

So I understand you may have had issues with being a witness, and no one is perfect, but there are loving, kind, amazing people to be found in the faith of Jehovah's Witnesses!

And if you want to know what Jehovah's Witnesses believe, go to jw.org that is the official site of Jehovah's Witnesses and you can get all the information for free!

Also, my husband's father is unable to get a Bible from his catholic church, they tell him he needs to pay $40 for one, and $60 for a Spanish Bible!! We asked at the Kingdom Hall for a bible and received on for free. We asked for a Spanish bible for his father, and they are special ordering one for him, for free! Tell me, does any catholic church do that? Does a baptist? Pentecostal? Not that I am aware of!

So please, take this story with a grain of salt. Not everyone can live the modest life style that being a Jehovah's Witness entails. Some crave attention, and the ability to be able to party but as a Witness, you have to set yourself apart from these things.

And I notice he never states if he was scripturally divorced from his first wife before getting together with this next woman? And did they sleep together before marriage? Isn't that not allowed in catholicism as well?

For whatever its worth, I was raised catholic, and was amazed at how much of the bible's teachings is left out. It's not an attack on the catholic religion. It's the truth and it's not just the catholic religion but many that simply do not teach the bible's truth. I have many friends who are very good kind hearted catholics, but. I have to call it as I see it.
I spent twenty years in the organization of Jehovah's witnesses and fell off the band wagon for personal issues, However, being out makes me realize that although as imperfect as many Jehovah's witnesses may be, collectively as a group they're explanation of the scriptures are the soundest and most reasonable,thus proving that they are being used by our creator to do his will in these latter days.
I am currently making arrangements in my life to attend to the meetings of Jehovah's witnesses so I can strengthen myself to do the right things in the eyes of our Lord Jehovah the Almighty.
People open your eyes and learn bible truth sincerely. so. that you can be prepared for what is to come. A change that is the only way to bring true peace and security through Jehovahs Kingdom where the corruption of human government will cease.
Only a government from up above can truly take care of all of the issues that face not only the nation, but . that of the entire world!!!!

You gave no scriptural reason for your leaving JW. You just traded on nutty religion for another. I'll bet you still feel empty ten years from now because like many people you cant just be happy with what you have! People like you always want more more more. More answers like the meaning to life or hey the big lottery the immortal soul! How about just being thankful for the breath your breathing now. Read your bible at home and stop being so need that you have to go join club Catholicism

There is much ignorance from non-Catholics & horrid prejudice from fundamentalists, such as the JW's. Catholics are not Bible idolators, as the JW's and Evangelicals are. Don't you get it?? Catholics believe that the Church (& there is only one) is the foundation for the Bible; the Bible is not the foundation for the Church. Where in the Bible does Christ say that only the Bible is needed & that all is found in the Bible? The Bible was meant to be a great source of inspiration & guidance, of course. The Catholic Church is the only Christian religion founded by God Himself...all other so-called Christian religions are founded by a man. The pitful man who founded the JW cult even died on Halloween...no one hates that date more than a JW. He idolized the pyramid...a pagan symbol if ever there was one. The Catholic Church protected, painstakingly copied & preserved the original, one true Scripture for 1500 years until the Gutenberg press was invented to copy Bibles for the masses. The Catholic Church did NOT alter the true Scripture....Martin Luther threw out hundreds of precious passages to suit his own needs....it is heresy ! If ignorant, uneducated heretics would only study the history of the Church instead of listening to hateful lies perpetrated by non-Catholics for centuries. Wake-up, folks ! You have been brain-washed. Also, even Christ said that some Church leaders would disappoint him on occasion. Church leaders are human. The Church is the only true path. There are nearly 30,000 Protestant denominations & only one Catholic Church. The 30,000 can't agree on anything. Also, at Mass, the Epistles & Gospels are read each week. At the end of the year, Catholics have heard & read all the pertinent elements. JW's & Evangelicals are constantly Catholic-bashing in their churches ...full of ignorant, hateful lies. I can assure you that I and my Catholic friends have never heard bashing of any other religion at home or at Church ! Also, the Catholic Church is responsible for nearly 50% of all social services in America. JW's don't believe in any charity whatsoever ! What's more, JW's are uneducated. They have more suicides & more depression than any other religion. They put on a happy front to impress...but they are noticeably lost & in despair. The JW hierarchy lacks scholarship & education. How on earth can they interpret a Bible?

its because the catholic church lets you do anything you want, no religion should be judge, but maybe you just cant handle the guidelines and rules they have.
nothing comes easy, and sometimes people don't like that, they want the easy way, im of no religion, but Ive been to a jw meeting before, and they are not sad, thus the bible says that gods name is Jehovah, if you would read it you would know. if you did reaserch then you would know all this, but like i said, some humans will not be able to follow cus they dont feel the need to work that hard.
the bible predicts it, that some of the sheep would leave, and some are disguised as sheep in the heard when in reality they are wolves, and because of those they make religion look bad.

To me this story sounds to me like he is Mad at the Jehovah's witnesses, because he let his own reasoning guide him instead of living the truths, that is found on the Scriptures, and he had to spell, because he was a bad influence. He did not mentioned and biblical reason why he left. I would not be surprised if this story is made out by a priest or a "Padre". Its clear the Catholic Church is the Harlot mentioned in the book of Apocalypse 17:1-6. The catholic church for millions of killings of innocent peoples around the world, and in resent years it has been made public that they rape and molested thousands of children. What do they do in return, they name John Paul the Second a Saint Father. On Mathew 23:9 Jesus clearly states: "Moreover, do not call anyone your father on earth, for one is your Father,+ the heavenly One." . He protected all the rapist during decades and hide them from the law. The Bible is clear in Apocalypse 18:4 "And I heard another voice out of heaven say: “Get out of her, my people,+ if you do not want to share with her in her sins, and if you do not want to receive part of her plagues." All of the Jehovah's Witnesses teachings are strictly from the bible, sometimes is extremely hard to live to those standards, but Jehovah, and his people are of great spiritual help, we just need to continue on the righteous path of eternal life, but only a few will find it (Mat 7:13).

for all of you and for you the author i have only one thing. What you, the author, said i believe is wrong. I would believe you of course if you explained things with the bible and not the word of a man. I have see what the world is capable of and I've also seen that the Jehovah witness have never said anything bad about other religions. They say some are false but they explain it with the words of the bible, but they don't mention your religion. I am studying with the Jehovah witnesses and i plan to get baptized this year. I'm extending this invitation to every reader. Email me and ask me a question i will answer it with the bible and if you believe i'm wrong i will accept your opinion. Thank you very much for your time. Oh and some Jehovah witness might say things like the young boy, but i believe he was trying to help the young man that wrote this article. It might seem offensive but he believed that it was right. I will say that i will not offend you or your religion if i do it by accident, it was by accident and i didn't mean it. Thank you and if you want to email me i will be here.

I was raised as a witness...in fact, I was a third generation JW. I can honestly say that reading these comments from current and/or "studying" JWs are sincerely disturbing to me for a number of reasons, the biggest of them being simply a lack of understanding. I am currently beginning RCIA and can say unequivocally that the catholic church is everything I have searched for and then some. I am ever thankful that I have found my spiritual home.

This is a preliminary response to Alex Romo, who wants Biblical proof that the JWs don't believe in the Bible. JWs believe that Jehovah is the Father, Jesus is His son (rather one of His sons like in Gen 6: 1-4) and the Holy Spirit is energy (like electricity). And Trinity is a pagan myth. Then how do we explain Matt 28:19. Here the Bible (words of Jesus) says 'name' not 'names'. If Father, Son and Holy Spirit were separate entities the Bible would have said 'names' not 'name'.

Dear Dessira: The Catholic Church has no policy of suppression or tolerance of child sexual abuse. If it happened to you, in the manner that you described, then, not just me but all true Catholics are extremely sorry. It must have been a traumatic experience for you and your family.

But the reality is that sexual predators abound in all places and many in religious congregations of different kinds. Like the following quote will make it clear to you that it is very much prevalent amongst JW congregations:

"In June 2012, the Superior Court of Alameda, California, ordered the Watch Tower Society to pay $21 million in punitive damages, in addition to compensatory damages, after finding that the Society's policy to not disclose child abuse history of a member to parents in the congregation or to report abuse to authorities contributed to the sexual abuse of a nine-year-old girl. Her attorney claimed at the time that it was the "largest jury verdict for a single victim in a religious child abuse case in the country". The plaintiff claimed in her lawsuit that the national leaders of the Jehovah's Witnesses formed a policy in 1989 that instructed elders to keep child sex abuse accusations within the group secret to avoid lawsuits. A subsequent motion in September 2012 resulted in a reduction of the punitive damages to $8.61 million." Read more- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehovah's_Witnesses'_handling_of_child_sex_abuse

I have more information about how JWs spread false propaganda against the Catholic religion. Anyone interested may contact me.

Johos,are brainwashed. it's hard tobelieve in this day and age but theyfind your weak spot and slowly try to transform you. Their leader Rutherperve was 16 years old when he shot off from the 7day advent church,was a highschool dropout and wanted money and power and he was a false prophet! His sidekick was taze russel and together they scared gullable people into following them by threats that the world would soon end by the third date most people saw them for what they were, apostates. Old man Taze was a criminal who tricked innocent farmers out of their life savings by the promise os magical wheat grain that would yield over 60% of other wheat grain but the authorities caught him and he did jail time and paid back the money he scammed these poor innocent farmers of so pathetic the lengths this power hungry men will go to. They will have to answer to Our father son and the holy spirit May God in heaven have mercy on these adulterers and thieves for they know not the truth!!!

This man is insane. The Catholic Church has done nothing but mislead human kind for centuries. Jehovah is the true god and his witnesses spread the good news of his kingdom. I can personally say myself I was removed for my wrong doing but it is a form of discipline not punishment. Im not hear to argue but only spread this truth.

That is the worst decision you have done.. I'm not a Jehovah witness but you are going into a religion of lies and lies and you know this.. you have left the truth to go to the lies.. stupid decisions.

Maybe Jehovah put Lou in among the Catholics to give them the truth of the Bible. He certainly is a God fearing man. We all know that every religion has clashing beliefs, but the Bible is a sword and it cuts away at false beliefs. Jehovah wants everyone to be saved, and how he uses people is awesome. I don't question anything Jehovah does anymore. When I met the Christ, He showed me that he puts people where He wants them to do the most good. You actually could be fighting against and critizing Jehovah's ways to your own undoing!

I thought of something else: Study Jesus' life, how He acted, what He did. He was sent to show us how to treat each other. Love marks the true quality of a true christian. I've been in both religions and now I stand alone. It's just Jehovah and me. No one has wrecked my faith, although they tried! The literal shepherds would place all their sheep in one pen, and then when they left, the sheep would separate and follow their own their true masters voice. If you know the truth it will set you free from every false teaching! Follow the masters voice!

1. Is there only one true religion?
Jesus taught his followers only one religion, the true religion. It is like a road leading to everlasting life. Jesus said: “Few are finding” that road. (Matthew 7:14) God accepts only worship based on his Word of truth. All true worshippers are united in one faith.—Read John 4:23, 24; 14:6;3 "Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshippers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for indeed, the Father is looking for ones like these to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth.” Ephesians 4:4, 5.

2. What did Jesus say about false Christians?
Jesus warned that false prophets would corrupt Christianity. Outwardly, they seem like true worshippers. Their churches claim to be Christian. But you can recognize such people for what they really are. How? Only true worship produces genuine Christians with recognizable qualities and ways.—Read Matthew 7:13-23.

3. How can you recognize true worshippers?
Consider these five identifying marks:

True worshippers respect the Bible as God’s Word. They strive to live by its principles. So true religion differs from religion that is based on men’s ideas. (Matthew 15:7-9) True worshippers do not preach one thing and practice another.—Read John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
Jesus’ true followers honor God’s name, Jehovah. Jesus honored God’s name by making it known. He helped people to know God and taught them to pray that God’s name be sanctified. (Matthew 6:9) Where you live, which religion makes God’s name known?—Read John 17:26; Romans 10:13, 14.
True Christians preach about God’s Kingdom. God sent Jesus to preach the good news of the Kingdom. God’s Kingdom is the only hope for mankind. Jesus continued speaking about it until his dying day. (Luke 4:43; 8:1; 23:42, 43) He said that his followers would preach about it. If someone approaches you to speak about God’s Kingdom, to which religion does he likely belong?—Read Matthew 24:14.
Jesus’ followers are no part of this wicked world. You can recognize them by the way they take no part in politics or social conflicts. (John 17:16; 18:36) Also, they do not imitate the world’s harmful practices and attitudes.—Read James 4:4.
True Christians have outstanding love for one another. From God’s Word, they learn to respect all ethnic groups. Although false religions have often strongly supported the wars of the nations, true worshippers refuse to do so. (Micah 4:1-3) Rather, true Christians unselfishly use their time and resources to help and encourage others.—Read John 13:34, 35; 1 John 4:20.
4. Can you identify the true religion?
Which religion bases all its teachings on God’s Word, honors God’s name, and proclaims God’s Kingdom as mankind’s only hope? Which group practices love and shuns war? What do you think?—Read 1 John 3:10-12.

Lou, in the spirit of 2 pet 2:22. Good for you. If becoming a catholic does it for you, so be it. You have free will and you've made your decision. And you will be responsible for it, as you know.

Regarding witnesses having a hate of the catholic church, I've never seen it. I have seen witness publications making comments of what the catholic church has done historically, which are facts.

Regarding tradition - Jesus spoke extensively on this at Matt 15. So, I'm not impressed with with this being the reason for your conversion. I suspect it had more to do with getting the girl rather than getting a religion. Just my opinion. Anyway, that's the way your account reads. Out of curiosity, what were the theological reasons for your conversion?

Also, out of curiosity, how do you reconcile Jesus command to his followers to make disciples with your current situation. First century Christians were known as evangelizers, Almost 8 million Witnesses spent almost 2 billion hours last year reaching out to others to assist in studying the bible. Seems like that is the spirit of Matt 28:19-20

PS - I've worked with many Catholics over the years and had many many discussions regarding beliefs and eventually it all seems to come down to they have outsourced study of the bible to their priests and felt no responsibility for deep personal study. Your example, the celebration of christ mas. The New Catholic encyclopedia notes it did not begin to be celebrated until the 4th century and didn't become common until the 11th century. Seems like if peter was the first pope and celebrating a birthday was a big deal, it would have started in the first century instead of 1000 years later. Also pretty convenient that there were pagan celebrations exchanging gifts at that time that were swept into christmas Its also interesting that Christmas wasn't really celebrated in the US until after the civil war. Anyway, I digress.

To me this article is "on the surface". Nothing profound are said and there are no real proves, particular examples. This article is more like an essay. But where are the real proves? It is an ad. That's all.

All I can say is that the Jehovah's witnesses do not single out Catholic 's. They expose false teachings in all religions. It just so happens that Catholics have more than many of the religions. But with that being said you obviously never made the Truth your own. Its just like Judas Iscariot. He desired the things of the world. All I can say I'd that those who worship Jehovah with spirit and truth are acceptable to Him. Enough said.

This message is specifically for Mary Kochan. I find it very difficult to believe that you were ever one of Jehovah's Witnesses. You may have gone through the motions but that is all. Catholics perpetuate false religion. If you did any research on the Catholics beliefs you will find they violate almost everything the early Christians taught.. Of course ones like the Apostle Paul and others warned there would be an apostasy. The Catholic's teach that Steven is buried in Rome. Yet there is not one shred of evidence that he even went there. They call there priest Father and other titles that the scriptures clearly condemn. They believe that the pope is infallible. That is not possible. I could go on and on but what would be the purpose. As for the witnesses being unhappy again you are wrong. I have been one of Jehovah's witnesses for 39 years. My wife for 41 years. She was once catholic. She was a very devoted Catholic. She knows more about Catholics than most Catholics. But we are very happy and satisfied with our beliefs as are most Jehovah's witnesses. It is obvious that Jehovah's Holy spirit is not on you. To spread lies like you do is nothing more than apostasy. That is all I have to say for now.

I'm not baptized in any religion but when I read and search and pray for help in understanding the search for him for some reason I'm always brought back to the Bible for the answers. I find the Bible is very clear to see that it exposes all false teachings. And as we move forward in his timewindow the light will get brighter and brighter. As you well know that the absolute truth is still in the bible . I've looked at all religions and there teachings and they all seem to write their own story maybe even a feel good story. Its not easy too at first to choose the truth so to speak but Jesus Himself said it the scriptures "the truth will set you free" and lined out every way possible on how to really look at false teachings that were not from Jehovah his father and ours. The Jehovah's Witnesses although I don't understand everything clearly are being blessed by Jehovahs spirit. No one on this planet teaches to the most distant parts of the earth further than Jehovah's Witnesses and in so many different languages and yet still keep Gods word exactly as it's written or as close as possible to an accurate translation. Some people like myself have made excuses in order to fit there worldly thoughts and beliefs of how it should be in life and how they think the Bible should read or how they have rewritten it and all the other teachings out there that are not coinciding with the Scriptures. Jehovah does not allow that and there's a reason why he warns us
"Guard your heart for out of it are the sources of life". Satan has had so much time to sit and watch us and mold things around us to benefit him but we know he has a very short time to live. But I know from the Scriptures as well that Jehovah can read your heart so this is obviously a deep issue for you and so many other creations of his. Just make sure that you know as everybody else knows who believes in God and actually take the time to study the Bible it reads what it reads. He promises the repayment will be far greater than anyone or any religion could give you in this lifetime for staying true to his name. "Jehovah"

I was one of Jehovah's Witnesses for over twenty years. I was a regular pioneer (full-time volunteer). I led a strong spiritual example for all women in the congregation. I started to question things that didn't make sense to me...disfellowshipping for example. Eventually I left. It's been over a year now and I can say I have never been happier. I am not a part of any religious organization, but I am still a spiritual person and avid Bible reader.

The one thing that I find extremely amusing about this thread is all the "JW's" putting in their two cents. Last time I checked (I highly doubt it's changed in the last two years) JW's are STRONGLY advised to avoid all blogs, stories, websites, etc that discuss the organization that are not jw.org. So how, in good faith, can you all sit there and preach about what good people you are and how loyal you are to a religion that you are currently disobeying? Get a grip, people. You're nothing more than brain washed followers. Step outside your realm for just a moment and you will clearly see that. What kind of God would not only allow, but encourage mothers to disown their children simply for having a different belief? If you think for one second that a loving, caring God would do that, then you're the apostate and hypocrite, not the ones on here that are clinging to their spiritual life trying to find answers.

Hello, I'm sorry but this sort saddens me. I am
One of Jehovah's witnesses and I enjoy my life very much. I have two loving parents who have raised me in the truth and a lovely little sister who is learning too. I'm not saying your teenage life was easy but I had it bad as well. Life for witnesses aren't easy. Take it from me who's been stabbed, beaten, talked down and rejected for having my beliefs. Yet my spirituality is still strong. I just hope that this goes to your heart. It hurts me so much to see a brother leave and I would like to help you see the truth again as much as I can. I am baptized, 18 years old, dating a very spiritual sister and am waiting to become a regular pioneer like my parents. Let's talk soon brother, I'd like to understand you more and hopefully show you back into the right path and into Jehovah's loving arms. I'm sure you miss those happy times in the congregation. I would if I were in your shoes. Thank you for listening to my words brother. And may jehovah bless you.

I came to the point that I got overly confused. Hearing people talk about their religion and faith and how righteous they seemed to be made me confused so much more. They are intelligent and would be able to convinced you with their very solid points and personal experiences. People from different churches though are all not perfect. There will always be one from each religion who will commit mistakes and even serious sins, but that should not speak for the entire group. At the end, YOU CAN ALWAYS STUDY THE HISTORY AND TEACHINGS OF THE BIBLE FIRST HAND IN ORDER TO PROVE TO YOURSELF which one is correct and pleasing to God. It won't be very easy but for sure very rewarding and enlightening. That's what I did. And truly, I started knowing the true God worthy of my worship. I am NOT a baptized Jehovah's Witnesses, but truly I found that God's name is JEHOVAH - Check the Original Greek and Hebrew scriptures, His name is mentioned around 7000 times. GIVE YOURSELF A FAVOR, STUDY THE BIBLE YOURSELF. It will give you clarity as much as what it did to me :) May the spirit of one true God be with all of you.

I'm a Jehovah's Witness and how were you expecting to stay in the religion knowing that you're doing things that are unacceptable? If you were reproved that means that they were giving you a chance, and you messed it up. and now you're a catholic, you obviously didn't learn anything while you went to kingdom hall when Jehovah's big day comes you're going to regret this choice.

To "Finally Free" Yes Jehovah's Witnesses are brain washed. Our brains been washed clean from celebrating pagan Holidays under the guise of Christianity, Also Idol worship, redundant rosary prayers, prayers to the saints rather than to Jehovah through his son, Mary is called the mother of GOD, rather than the mother of his son Jesus, even after giving birth to sons and daughters, she is still considered a virgin. What about the Trinity mystery? Yes it is a mystery since no one can explain it. The saying holds true "Its a mystery to me." I think the Catholics moved away from the Purgatory doctrine. And then during the two great wars, the Church blessed the weapons of each opposing countries for God to give them the victory. How many Catholic US Soldiers killed their brothers of faith from other nations and nationality during theses wars? Yes our brains had been washed clean.

Wow such classy Jehovah's Witnesses on here with their typical nasty rude childish evil comments. Fake "Christians" all the way. For your information also, God's name is NOT Jehovah. The name Jehovah wad invented by a Catholic monk named Raymondus Martini in 1270 AD. I find it hysterical that "Jehovah's" Witnesses use that name while hating (what else is new?) on THE true Church of Christ. HYPOCRITES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Excellent website to debunk every single false doctrine of JWs...http://www.scripturecatholic.com and an awesome book "Kingdom Of The Cults". After studying the false devil doctrines of The Watchtower for five years, thank God i didn't enter into the hell of Watchterism or also known as Russellism!

You mean when Constantine decided to take it upon himself to change/twist true Christianity?

Know your history, know what Jesus taught...for example, here is one Constantine teaching that should be questioned.
.
IS JESUS GOD?
When Constantine became sole ruler of the Roman Empire, professed Christians were divided over the relationship between God and Christ. Was Jesus God? Or was he created by God? To settle the matter, Constantine summoned church leaders to Nicaea, not because he sought religious truth, but because he did not want religion to divide his empire.

Constantine asked the bishops, who may have numbered into the hundreds, to come to a unanimous accord, but his request was in vain. He then proposed that the council adopt the ambiguous notion that Jesus was “of one substance” (homoousios) with the Father.

This unbiblical Greek philosophical term laid the foundation for the Trinity doctrine as later set forth in the church creeds. Indeed, by the end of the fourth century, the Trinity had essentially taken the form it has today, including the so-called third part of the godhead, the holy spirit. Which, by the way, the Bible never claimed the Holy Spirit to be a person, rather the Grand Creator's active force. : ).
Christian Love always to everyone, a JW.

Please Don't be bitter because it is clear that the bible states to "remove the wicked (actions) person from among yourselves". Jehovah's organization is clean in teachings and actions, recognizing that humans are not perfect, however, through Jesus ransom, if a person is repentant about their wrong doing, they are warmheartedly embraced back to associate. My mom is catholic, and I want to hear what Catholics are talking about nowadays, so that I can reason with my mom. We openly invite all to visit http://www.jw.org for the facts. MD

Hello to Sam Bastian who commented back in Aug 31 2014 and wrote:
"Then how do we explain Matt 28:19. Here the Bible (words of Jesus) says 'name' not 'names'. If Father, Son and Holy Spirit were separate entities the Bible would have said 'names' not 'name'."

The name of the Father (Jehovah, as seen at Psalm 83:18) is the only name that is hallowed and required to be sanctified (again, words of Jesus at Matt 6:9). Jesus did not say to sanctify his own name, nor does the Holy Spirit have a name. So the scripture at Matt 28:19 is accurately written, of course. :-)
There are so many times Jesus specifically directed man NOT to worship him nor pray to him, nor hold him at the same level as Jehovah God, even tho many did. He corrected them in most cases. However, as the Ruler of God's Kingdom and mediator between man and God, we pray all things THRU Jesus (or "in Jesus' name"), not TO him. Please See:

John 4:23 (Jesus' words) Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for, indeed, the Father is looking for such like ones to worship him.

Psalm 97:9 For you, O Jehovah, are the Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all other gods.

1 Cor 1:9 God is faithful, by whom you were called into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

John 14:13 Also, whatever you ask in my name, I will do this, so that the Father may be glorified in connection with the Son.

John 5:26,27 For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted also to the Son to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to do judging, because he is the Son of man. (he is not God)

John 17:20,21 “I make request, not concerning these only, but also concerning those putting faith in me through their word, so that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in union with me and I am in union with you, that they also may be in union with us, so that the world may believe that you sent me." (does this mean that if we are in union with Jehovah and Jesus, that we are also God? Certainly not.)

John 3:35,36 The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. The one who exercises faith in the Son has everlasting life; the one who disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him. (Why would the Father have to give all things to the Son if they were both God? If we disobey the Son, would we not see the wrath of the Son, if he were also God??)

WHEN a disciple asked for instruction regarding prayer, Jesus did not refuse to give it to him. According to Luke 11:2-4, he replied: "When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation." (Catholic Douay Version) This is commonly known as the Lord's Prayer. It conveys a world of information.

For one thing, the very first word tells us to whom our prayers must be addressed—to our Father. Notice that Jesus made no room whatsoever for praying to some other person, image, "saint," or even to him. After all, God had declared: "I will not give my glory to another, nor my praise to graven things." (Isaiah 42:8, Dy) Prayers directed to anything or anyone other than our heavenly Father are therefore not heard by him, no matter how sincere the worshiper may be. In the Bible, only Jehovah God is called the "Hearer of prayer."—Psalm 65:2.

Some may say that "saints" act merely as intercessors with God. But Jesus himself instructed: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Also, whatever it is that you ask in my name, I will do this, in order that the Father may be glorified in connection with the Son." (John 14:6, 13) Jesus thus ruled out the idea that anyone called a saint could serve in the role of intercessor. Observe also what the apostle Paul said regarding Christ: "He not only died for us—he rose from the dead, and there at God's right hand he stands and pleads for us." "He is living for ever to intercede for all who come to God through him."—Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25, Catholic Jerusalem Bible.

Jesus is Jehovah’s most precious Son—and for good reason. He is called “the firstborn of all creation,” for he was God’s first creation. (Colossians 1:15) There is something else that makes this Son special. He is the “only-begotten Son.” (John 3:16) This means that Jesus is the only one directly created by God. Jesus is also the only one whom God used when He created all other things. (Colossians 1:16) Then, too, Jesus is called “the Word.” (John 1:14) This tells us that he spoke for God, no doubt delivering messages and instructions to the Father’s other sons, both spirit and human.

Is the firstborn Son equal to God, as some believe? That is not what the Bible teaches. As we noted in the preceding paragraph, the Son was created. Obviously, then, he had a beginning, whereas Jehovah God has no beginning or end. (Psalm 90:2) The only-begotten Son never even considered trying to be equal to his Father. The Bible clearly teaches that the Father is greater than the Son. (John 14:28; 1 Corinthians 11:3) Jehovah alone is “God Almighty.” (Genesis 17:1) Therefore, he has no equal.

Jehovah and his firstborn Son enjoyed close association for billions of years—long before the starry heavens and the earth were created. How they must have loved each other! (John 3:35; 14:31) This dear Son was just like his Father. That is why the Bible refers to the Son as “the image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15) Yes, even as a human son may closely resemble his father in various ways, this heavenly Son reflected his Father’s qualities and personality.

Jehovah’s only-begotten Son willingly left heaven and came down to earth to live as a human. But you may wonder, ‘How was it possible for a spirit creature to be born as a human?’ To accomplish this, Jehovah performed a miracle. He transferred the life of his firstborn Son from heaven to the womb of a Jewish virgin named Mary. No human father was involved. Mary thus gave birth to a perfect son and named him Jesus.—Luke 1:30-35.

I've never heard brothers and sisters speak ill of the Catholic Church. We are disassociated from the congregation as a form of counsel. We must acknowledge our wrong doings and repent in our sins. I myself decided to do worldly things. I am ashamed of the things I have done in my life time and in turn the things that have happened to me since leaving Jehovah's organization. If not for my upbringing in the truth I think I would be far worse off than I am now. It kills me to see people speak badly of our beloved religion. I got at least once a year to memorial and each and every time I go I am welcomed with open arms and open hearts. The brothers and sisters are genuinely happy to see me and curious as to how I am doing. My father has recently started studying again and I can first hand describe the wonderful changes I have seen in him since doing so. Though we may stray away we know what the truth is. Psalms 83:18 states "he who's name is Jehovah is most high over all the earth" also another point i would like to share is that Jehovah's people are first and foremost BIBLE STUDENTS. Always researching and learning and also making amendments to prior beliefs due to new knowledge. What other religions do you see doing that? I have not practiced in nearly 7 years however I hold Jehovah's word true to my heart and I know I am not living the life I should and am making the changes I know need to be made to feel (for myself and myself alone) more comfortable spreading his word. One thing I appreciated most about our religion is that I COULD ask any question and be answered with a scripture. I can look up a key word in the back of my bible and find the answeres I am looking for. Also in response to someone stating earlier that they once heard a witness state that "only Jehovah's people will go to heaven" in the scripture Revelation 14:1 -5" then I saw and look the lamb standing on Mount Zion and him 144,000 who have his name and the name of his father written on their foreheads. 2) I heard a sound coming out of heaven like the sound of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder and that the sound that I heard was like singers who accompany themselves by playing on their harps. 3) and they are singing what seems to be a new song before the throne and before the four living features and the elders and no one was able to master that song Except the 144,000 who have been bought from the earth. 4) these are the ones who did not defile them selves with women in fact they are virgins these are the ones who kept following the lamb no matter where he goes these were bought from among mankind is firstfruits to God and to the lamb, 5) and no deceit it was found in Their mouths they are without blemish" So here it shows 144,000 will be bought from the earth and go to heaven they will rule as kings and priests (revelations 20:6) while the rest of Jehovah's followrs will be living on a paradise new earth (revelation 21:3,4) why would Jehovah God resurrect ALL of his followers to heaven? Who/ would the Kings and priests rule over if EVERYONE was resurrected to heaven? We do no believe that only our religion will be brought to heave but the Anointed ones. When we partake in Jesus' memorial each year on Nissan the 14th we do not ALL partake in consuming the unleavened bread and wine for majority of us do not have the heavenly hope or are anointed. We pass the plate or wine glass and the anointed consume/ partake in eating or drinking. We do not make false accusations of other religions as an orginization. We are however imperfect INDIVIDUALS and have our own past experiences which we may spew out negative memories or circumstances endured however the case could be the same in retrospect hint hint this disgruntled article. It is not our job to judge however it is our RESPONSIBILITY to preach Jehovah's word when given an opportunity. Please before you go speaking bad of ones religion be sure you have a good understanding before making accusations. All witnesses are willing to answer any and all questions you may have WITH SCRIPTURES and though it may take a while please be certain it is only a lengthy time because they are looking for scriptures, articles, and finding the best way to explain the answeres to you. I know I have not live a life approved by Jehovah and therefore it is MY decision to refrain from attending meetings and bible study with sisters from the congrrgation but I do hold Jehovah dear to my heart and know that it is through his SON Jesus my prayers are heard and through his holy spirit I am being moved to make the improvements I ask for him to help me with. Jehovah will not just answer your prayers you must make an effort on your own part as well. All I ask is that you respect us as we respect you. Though witnesses may come off as abrasive or cold or whatever adjective you use to describe them as they have the right intentions and know what is expected of them through Jehovah's word and know that though we may not be abiding by his word if we repent he AND the congregation will accept you with open arms and an open heart and will do everything to give you good association and the proper support needed. Jehovah is a loving and forgiving God. Never forget that!

Also I would like to ask what religion do you see write detailed publications of bible books and prophecies going into detail? Jehovah's organization has books such as "what does the bible really teach?" "Daniels prophecies" "the revelation book" along with the family teach book. There are so many informative pieces of literature that they print and make to help benefit us and give a better understanding of gods word. To read and LEARN what is really in the bible and not just go by what the preacher/ priests say is in there. And yes I have attended different churches and their main concern was money. God isn't s lover of money. Just remember even when the witnesses come to your door their only concern is getting you more acquainted with your Bible and for you to have a closer relationship with God.

JW's, and RC'S are both cults. I'm not saying this in hate, but along with the LDS church, the Christian Scientists, et al, "Christian " groups, there is a basic thread here. All cults want you to adhere to a special rite of passage, like special symbols, prayers, objects, etc. I won't even get started on the non-Christians, like Muslims. The RC Church misses the point, once again relying on their well-worn arguments about "Tradition" being equal to the Bible. Mary is NOT the mother of God. There is NO immaculate conception. Repetition of prayers is not needed. Priests are not needed. Holy water isn't needed. Prayer beads aren't necessary. So much to say, so little time. God bless.

I am a catholic but when i look at all the postings, I confirm what Kate wrote on 05 August 2014 that anti catholics luck education .It is true they luck understanding of the scripture . I read all the postings for both catholics and non catholics and I found that Kate you are superb. You can imagine some non catholics writing that there are many Gods of different religions!!!! Does that make sense? Sorry for you guys.

I study with the Jehovah's Witness. Before I did, I studied catholic and Christianity. And I saw that the Jehovah's witnesses were more close to the bible, meaning, that whatever they would say about God, they said it with the bible and this convinced me. There are other publications that go along with the bible. For example: Can we live forever, Can the dead really live, meaning can they come back to life, did science replaced the bible? And it's true that we cannot communicate with anyone who has been expelled from the organization. Why? Well because they did something that wasn't right and we don't want to fall into that trap because we want to serve our God Jehovah faithfully and without being Hippocrates. A lot of people might think bad of us. It that's the case, then it's better to ask a Jehova's witness. And I'm sure who ever you ask will be gladly to give you the answers.

If you want to learn about what jehovahs witnesses teach its best to go find out from " the horses mouth" as they. Not from apostates . http://Www.jw.org is the official website of jw's and they have a search engine where you can ask whatever question you have about the scriptures. No one gets disfellowshiped for asking questions, getting disfellowshipped comes when your living a sinful life and are givin council about it and refuse to change your ways. But just because someone is a JW dosent mean they are perfect. Just like the cathloics have a long history of sexually abusing little boys, dosent mean they all do that. I believe in what the jw's teach and im working towards getting baptized. The name translated jehovah in the ancient scripts appears almost 7000 times. In the old king james version it appears at exodus 6:3, psalms 83:18, psalms 68:4, isaiah 12:2, isaiah 26:4. In the "new" king james version its completely takin out. And sayimg jw's have a short history or are "oppposed" to catholics, for one i dont recall seeing the word catholic in any scripture in the bible and two, does anybody that think if they have the right religion think that other religions are exceptable? Jesus said different amd said small and narrow is the path to everlasting life and few are finding it. Theres only one true religion was what he was saying. And unlike the catholic religion, there are no payed "clergy" , all time spent in the ministry amd passing out free literature is from voluntary time and donations. They dont pass out a "collection plate" or try to ask you for money. They are fullfilling what matthew 24 states tjat " this good news of gods kingdom must be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to bear and then the end will come" would it not require an earthly organization full of gods servants to accomplish that? Jw's have published literature and bibles in 230 lands and almost 200 languages. You people need to do your reaearch before you listen to someones opinion on the internet. You want to know what jw's teach? Find out for yourselves from the source. Prophecy in bible told about a great apostasy would emerge afyer jesus death and the death of his apostles. King solomon who wrote proverbs and was known as the wisest man stated in ecclesciates that the living know that they will die, but as for the living they know nothing at all cause in the day of ones death his thoughts do perish. And jesus said true christians would be persecuted and hated on acvount of his name and his fathers name whom sent him. Everybody pn this post needa a history lesson and some accirate knowledge of the bible before u give your opinion on something u dont know about. The penalty of sin is death, it disgust Jah to think of torturing someonevwith fire for eternity in " hell fire" some of the bible is written litteral and sone symbolic. It dosent take a genius to figure out which is which. Revelations states that satan and his demons were cast down to EARTH having gteat anger knowing he has a short time. Hes not in a "hell" torturing people... educate yalls selves, you think God would give satan the pleasure of doing that? Use yalls heads and do your research, http://www.jw.org

If you believe in the Holy Trinity then it is clear that Mary is the mother of God. As "God in three persons blessed Trinity" is a tenet of your faith. Jesus is fully God and fully man. Mary gave birth to Him making her the Mother of God.

To djrj:
"The name of the Father (Jehovah, as seen at Psalm 83:18) is the only name that is hallowed and required to be sanctified (again, words of Jesus at Matt 6:9). Jesus did not say to sanctify his own name, nor does the Holy Spirit have a name. So the scripture at Matt 28:19 is accurately written, of course. :-)"

TO djrj: I ask you what is meant by this passage:

5 "For let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

6 Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

7 But emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men, and in habit found as a man.

8 He humbled himself, becoming obedient unto death, even to the death of the cross.

9 For which cause God also hath exalted him, and hath given him a name which is above all names:

10 That in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in heaven, on earth, and under the earth:

11 And that every tongue should confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the glory of God the Father."

Yes, we are to hallow and sanctify Jesus name because the Father himself "gave him a name above ALL names" a name to which all beings in heaven on earth and under the earth" will bow down. Are you too arrogant to obey this?

I know your rhetoric, the rhetoric of the JWs which is very subtle and misleading. It's like you are too busy looking at the trees to see the forest. The forest is Jesus. If you put down your "food at the proper time" which has poisoned many with half truths and pick up your Bible with a prayer and a sincere desire for the truth, you too will see that Truth is a Person, not an organization in Brooklyn. The true food of your soul (which doesn't exist in JW rhetoric) is Jesus the Bread of Life, Jesus the Good Shepherd, Jesus the King, Jesus the Redeemer, Jesus the Son of God and Jesus the Son of Man, Jesus our Ransom, Jesus, Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world, Jesus our only hope, Jesus our Savior, Jesus our Lord, Jesus the Way, Truth and Life, Jesus our light, Jesus our all in all, Jesus our Master, our Rabbi, our Friend, Jesus, our Brother....and finally you will declare like St Thomas the apostle "Jesus, my Lord and my God" Jesus said to John "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life." Rev 21:6

16"I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star." 17The Spirit and the bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost. Revelation 21: 16 and 17.

If Jesus is not God, he is blaspheming God, and that is literally why the Jews put him to death.

I hope for the love of God this can happen for all JWs. Peace be with you all, the Peace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is waiting patiently for you to recognize Him.

I read this story and 3/4th of the story's comments on Jehovah's Witnesses ARE NOT true. Jehovah's Witnesses have NEVER taught hatred or dislike against the Catholic Church or any other religious organization, group or person; that would be going against the Law of Love. Another thing: No one would ever be excommunicated over the telephone. I think you are leaving a lot out of the story that you do not want people to know. Please tell the "whole" story if you are going to tell it. If you felt that you were mistreated by any Jehovah's Witnesses, you knew that there were steps in place to correct those matters. Sometimes we have feelings of emptiness in our lives because we, as humans, sometimes feel that we have not lived up to our full potential. That's very normal. Sometimes it's called Depression, which is also normal. If someone was to question their religious belief just because they feel empty sometimes, well, you will be changing your religion often.

To all JW:
I am a catholic and JW destroyed our family. This cult prohibited from getting together on Christmas, does not believe in the Holy Spirit and trinity. It has only been around for 150 years. Started by a clothing guy, It sickens me. They sued to get our children not to say the Pledge of Allegiance when we were in the middle of World War II. Can you imagine? Our sons and fathers are over their fighting for our freedom and they are suing not to honor the Flag!
Ask the question if we did not fight which flag would be flying now? Nazi Germany or serving the Emperor of Japan.

The think the Catholic pray to Saints. We don't. If you have picture of your family and a deceased family member and you keep it with you, are you praying to a picture. Of course not. You are keeping their memory alive. Same thing the Catholics do with Saints. We are keeping their memory alive. We pray to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. We use Mary to act as an intercessor to the Lord. She is our GPS!
My sister is caught up in this and I am afraid is she is ever kicked out, it would kill her as all of her friends are in this. I pray for her enlightenment by the Holy Spirit and anyone else needing help in this

Sorry I have to disagree with you...but saying that you don't hate other religions is not right...I have watch people who Are Jehovah Witness's gloat when a news story comes out about another priest who is charged with molestation....you have only been a religion since the early 1900, if I have it correctly it was around 1931 established by Charles Taze Russell...But I know from personal experience that while children have been molested in your religion...it is a "don't tell anyone"....I will not expand on this, simply because it will not be accepted by you....I know there are 144,000 chosen people, and I also know from your teachings that they will all be Jehovah Witness's....I studied with one of the chosen, now deceased...You have what is called disfellowship....and only the elders are suppose to know why....well once again i find myself saying that not all elders follow this rule....the elder I knew told his wife, and within a day everyone knew...I will not say what religion I am, I really don't need to, but the teaching that are written and followed, are very disturbing, spare the rod and spoil the child... does that rod or in this case board mean that even though it has nails in it that it is ok to beat someone with it...I am sure that Jehovah would not see that in a good light...Is it ok for the male to sit home while his wife spends her days scavaging for food...I have so much to say, but for now I will let you ponder this...one more question for you before I go, we should all be dead by now, because the end has been predicted so many times by Jehovah's chosen ones....but it has not happened... , thank you for your time...I am sorry but I should have proof read my reply before posting it

But is not True, that Satan keeps transforming into an Angel of light? I am of no Religion. The only belief I do have is the The Word Of God..None of mans. Though even of No religion, The Lord Jesus does speak to me in ways of visions.One is to stay away from all of paganism, and the other is those that claim to be of God..If you are of Gods, you will experience sorrow, Persecution and suffering for even Timothy tell us so, if you are with Christ, you will suffer, What I do not understand is, why do you or anyone Commit himself or dedicate himself to God, then not follow through? I am awaiting for the Church of Peter to come upon the New earth, for I only belong to the Father, and the Son Christ my and your King but why can't you do research on the paganism? For we must worship God with our whole heart, and our whole mind, and our whole Soul..Guess, I will stay out of man kinds Religion, all together....

Are you all really arguing or commenting over JW vs. Catholics? All you really have to do is read the bible and live by it. BTW, you cannot be a Catholic if you were previously married. I don't know what I am yet, I am still trying to find my way. What I do know is the God that I know would never send a little kid or someone that couldn't possibly "know any better" to purgatory. GOD IS GOOD, NOT BAD. This would be torture.

Looking for a way to give and guide Catholics in my family and community I found a way to refute what others say trying to confuse me. I always pray to God to guide me and wait for his guidance. I am not currently studying the bible but the Knowledge I have gained through Catholic teachings is suficient to guide others who are willing to listen and read the bible under the guidance of the ones who have read the Bible in its original languages. Traslation has changed meanings.
And for those who are judging the Church because of the priests that deceived his teachings, let me tell you that there are many others that have died defending the faith, martyrs, that neither you or I cannot forget. Let God alone Judge those who have done wrong. Pray for them and God will do justice, because the bible teaches us that God is almighty and love. Alert members of your family not to confide in everyone, priests or teacher or even friends. However trust the priests who have been serving your community and have given up their personal lives to preach the word of God, many of whom have vows of poverty. They have studied for over 4 years of theology and can guide you in your studies on religious issues. Let yourself be guided by the true God and those who have deceived the LORD remember
He is all forgiveness, for Jesus gave the apostles the power to forgive our sins, if we truly repent.

I was raised as a JW, and I can tell you from personal experience that the Watchtower & Tract Society continually attacks the Catholic Church. Their book Babylon the Great Has Fallen is loaded with anti-Catholic rhetoric, calling the Catholic Church the “whore of Babylon” and many other blasphemous things. These JW’s are attacking the one and only true Church of Christ! I am a Catholic now, and I couldn’t be happier. Converting to the Catholic faith was a great decision. I can actually look at, wear and admire the cross and not feel guilt or told I am pagan for doing so, because JW’s don’t believe in the symbol of the Cross. Can you imagine that? A so-called Christian religion than hides from the Cross like what vampires and demons do in the movies…you just can’t make this stuff up!

When I was in college I was deeply in love with a man that I really thought I woukd end up marrying. One Saturday evening he announced he was going to church on Sunday. . . I thought . . ok. . .i did not join him as I was in college and church was not on my high priority list back then. When he returned he told me he had gone to The Kingdom Hall. . Now I did not know a lot of them then. . . But everything from my inner core was screaming. . .CULT. . CULT. .CULT! i was raised Catholic and knew this was not going to be good. . . .but I had no idea that it woukd happen so quickly. . On Monday. . The very next day he went to a meeting over at the Hall. . . .Wednesday. . . Another meeting. . But this time referring to them. . As. . . The brothers. . . When he came home from that meeting he declared it was a sin to be living with me. . . Yes we were living in sin.. . . And he needed to leave ASAP. Thursday he found a studio apt, Friday he signed the lease and Saturday he was gone. . . It took 6 days. To make matters more interesting most of his beliefs were now completely different as well. . . (Politics, war, blood, socializing etc). Again it only took 6 days. Needless to say my heart was broken and we parted ways. . . .i did go to a church service. . . If that is what you would even call it. . . I was stunned to say the least. There was nothing in that room that resembled a church to me, and all I heard people telling me was I had not been exposed to the "truth" yet. . . .and then it was Watch Tower study time. . . I saw nothing but brainwashing going on there and clearly never returned. Fast forward 35 years.. . We reconnect on Facebook.. . . Only to discover he had quit going to college and waited 15 years to have children because the JW doctrine did not aporove? Plus his parents were not allowed to attend his wedding due to the fact they were not involved with the Witnesses. . . Again COMPLETLEY unlike the man I fell in love with 30 some years ago. . . He claims he has left the congregation but still reads the Watch Tower for guidance???????? I am like are you kidding me? I woukd love to have some feedback on this as I now view them more strongly as a cult than I ever did before. . . . It appears to me that THEIR translation of the scriptures are warped at best. . . Or they eliminate bits and pieces to add to their brain washing methods. .am I wrong??? Looking for some honest feedback here. . .
Blessings

FIRST AND FOREMOST I'd like to extended an invitationt to all my brothers and sisters. If ever you travel to northern Ontario Canada...my house will be open... I'm not always there but make yourself at home. I always leave a vehicle at home so feel free to use as you wish. My house is your house. Love all of you with all my heart. May Jehovah bless is people.

Fourth Century
306-Council of Elvira, Spain, decree #43: a priest who sleeps with his wife the night before Mass will lose his job. (HERE A PRIEST HAS A WIFE)

A few years later

325-Council of Nicea: decreed that AFTER ORDINATION A PRIEST COULD NOT MARRY. Proclaimed the Nicene Creed.

SO THIS IS WHEN CATHOLICS STARTED THIS TRADITION OF MEN SINCE EARLIER PRIEST AND POPES DID MARRY BEFORE FOURTH CENTERY.

Now these words arent invented by Jehovah's Witnesses to make you look bad its just a bible student making the truth is own. Your own church leaders wrote these decrees.

Next portion I told myself I'll try to prove the Catholic doctrine is true so that I'm not bias.

So I read it and really tried to make sense of it. And then I re-read it. And I searched catholic websites online and I searched on a site that bishops use but with all the old manuscripts, ancient books, and I read every bible translation that catholics use, only those bibles because I didn't want someone to say..."Well that's in your Bible".

I came to the clear conclussion by using original language and Catholic Bibles I stress, that Peter did have a wife and she travelled with him on his assignments...unknown if its everytime but she did.

These are bibles catholics use:

oldest bible available in english..
Dead sea scrolls
And when Jesus was come into PETER's house, he SAW HIS WIFE's MOTHER laid, and sick of a fever.

1 Corinthians 9:5-6 Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition (DRA)
5 Have we not power to CARRY about A WOMAN, A SISTER ,AS WELL AS the rest of the apostles, and the brethren of the Lord, and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5-6Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE)
5 Do we not have the right to BE ACCOMPANIED BY A WIFE AS the other apostles and the brethren[c] of the Lord and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5-6New American Standard Bible (NASB)
5 [a]Do we not have a right to TAKE ALONG A BELIEVING WIFE, EVEN AS the rest of the apostles and the brothers of the Lord and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5-6New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE)
5 Do we not have the right to BE ACCOMPANIED BY A BELIEVING WIFE AS do the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5Good News Translation (GNT)
5 Don't I HAVE THE RIGHT TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF the other apostles and the Lord's brothers and PETER, BY TAKING A Christian WIFE with me on my trips?

1 Corinthians 9:5New American Bible (Revised Edition) (NABRE)
5 Do we not have the right to TAKE ALING A CHRISTIAN WIFE AS do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5Authorized (King James) Version (AKJV)
5 Have we not POWER TO LEAD ABOUT a sister, A WIFE, AS WELL AS other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5New King James Version (NKJV)
5 Do we have no right TO TAKE ALONG A BELIEVING WIFE, AS do also the other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and CEPHAS?

1 Corinthians 9:5New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition (NRSVACE)
5 Do we not have the right TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY A BELIEVING WIFE, AS do the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and CEPHAS?

So this being said why cant servants of God excercising a function in the church not be able to marry as Peter did?

In 1 Tim 3:2-5; it states about bishops...again in an authorized Bible used the Catholics.

1 Timothy 3:2-5Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE)
2 Now A BISHOP MUST BE above reproach, THE HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE, temperate, sensible, dignified, hospitable, an apt teacher, 3 no drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and no lover of money. HE MUST MANAGE IS OWN HOUSEHOLD WELL, keeping HIS CHILDREN submissive and respectful in every way; 5 for if a man does not know how to MANAGE HIS OWN household, HOW CAN HE CARE FOR GOD'S CHURCH?

(I know catholics say that they were talking about Bishops having a wife in the past (meaning there wives had died) but if we read the rest it clearly says TO HAVE HIS (THE BISHOPS) CHILDREN IN SUBMISSION, no? And only then was he able to care for the church)

So if bishops can marry and have children that they have to care for, priest definitely would be able to do the same!!

So many verses that proves christian that serve as priest, bishops were allowed to marry and have children as heads of the church.... The catholic bishop, priest in my town also agreed when I brought up these points to them while in my ministry so why does the Pope (church) appose it?

Im a confused as should all catholics be!

The bible is clear about what traditions we should follow, THE TRADITIONS GIVEN TO US BY JESUS.

2 Thessalonians 2:15 So then, brothers, STAND FIRM AND HOLD TO THE TRADITION THAT YOU WERE TAUGHT, either by our spoken word or by our letter

Or this verse: Corinthians 11:2 Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and MAINTAIN THE TRADITION EVEN HAS I DELIVERED THEM to you.

And...

1 Corinthians 11:1-2 BE IMITATORS OF ME, as I am of Christ. Now I commend you because YOU REMEMBERED ME IN EVERYTHING AND MAINTAINED THE TRADITIONS even as I DELIVERED them to you.

Matthew 15:2-6 WHY DO YOUR DISCIPLE BREAK THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS? For they do not wash their hands when they eat.” He answered them, “And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? For God commanded, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ But you say, ‘If anyone tells his father or his mother, “What you would have gained from me is given to God,” he need not honor his father.’ So FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR TRADITION YOU HAVE MADE VOID THE WORD OF GOD.

Here clearly saying some would create for themselves tradition.

mat 15:6-7; he need not honor his father.’ SO FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR TRADITION YOU HAVE MADE VOID THE WORD OF GODS 7 You HYPOCRITES! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: 8 “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me;

I DONT WANT TO BE AN HYPOCRITE!!, Do YOU?

Pope Francis has some REALLY INTERESTING NEW ideas on the centuries-old tradition of PAPAL AND PRIESTLY CELIBACY. Namely, he believes that the RULES requiring all priests to abstain from sex “CAN BE CHANGED."

Wow after all these years someone finally read the bible!! OR MAYBE HE DIDN'T, i don't know.

So what is the truth?
Did the church /catholics live their lives based on tradition made by men?

And now the Pope Francis revealed that during a seminary, he was “dazzled by a girl” that caused him to consider leaving the priesthood. He also stated that the PAPAL CELIBACY RULE IS SIMPLY ONE OF TRADITION AND IS FLEXIBLE.

Again wow!! FLEXIBLE LOL so funny.

YOU DO THE MATH!!! SORRY I REALLY DID TRY TO PROVE THE AGE OLD DOCTRINE OF CELIBACY FOR CHURCH LEADERS BUT I JUST WAS OVERWHELMED BY THE TRUTH FOUNDVIN GOD'S WORD THE BIBLE.

I was raised RC but found that not much time is spent reading the word of God and more is spent with ritualistic repetitive prayers to others and it is my understanding in the Bible that we are only to pray to God in Jesus' name. Also there are a lot of yucky things going on at the Vatican and it is so sad to see all the poor and suffering when the Vatican is all decked out in gold. I visited the Vatican in 2000 and I remember how they would not allow you in if you had a dress on, I knew that ahead of time so I brought the proper clothing but I remember a young girl had nothing and she came all the way to see and was not allowed in. I thought everyone was welcome in the church, God says come as you are. Something just is not right about that. However, there is much deception in the world today and actually it was like that back then too. Nothing is new under the sun. Just look at the junk on tv. The hidden inuenndos on childrens shows is absolutely disgusting. It is also very sad how people are so focused on their phones, computers, etc that they don't even socialize with others anymore. You look around and everyone is on their phone. I wonder what is going to happen when the phones go down, or the computers don't work anymore?? I believe in God, I know when He originally created the earth and then man, that it was His plan for us to live eternally in paradise. Unfortunately when Adam and Eve partook of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, sin came into the world and that's when all the corruption started. However God loved us so much, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life I don't know about you all but I know how much I love my children and to have to give one up would just be devastating. So just imagine how much God loves us. Everything will be made perfect again and that I know is true, so I am just trying to live my life as best I can as Jesus did. I know I am far from that but at least I try cause I definitely want to live in paradise with Jesus our saviour and God our Father. We are all children of God and He will never leave us, that is his promise. Love and blessings to all regardless of what religion you are. We are to love our neighbours as ourselves as we were created in God's image, so we are pretty special to Him. Praise the Lord

Jehovas witness have predicted end of world numerous times. Also use 7 less books in the bible. Read ignatius, who knew someone who was taught by an apostle. He believed the Eucharist was the real body of Christ . So did Polycarp, who was taught by John. And they both believed you are saved by faith, but your works play a part in your salvation. And you can lose your salvation, and there are not 6500 people in heaven, or whatever JWs believe. That was man made by a JW who decided this is what the bible says. If you don't have an infallible source, such as the majisterium of the church, you will have people every couple of hundred years read scripture that has been translated hundreds of times and decide this verse really means this, not this. Then this person will not read history, and decide Christianity really should be like this, not what early founding fathers believed. That's why it's not bible only. It's faith and tradition. Keep searching JW, you will see the light. .

Satan does not attack any other religion except the Catholic Church.Why? Fullness of TRUTH! What he has stated I have heard from other ex JW's also. Catholics do not leave Bible study up to the priest,it's our responsiblity to build a relationship with God by reading his word daily. JW began in 1879 no link to the apostles and also broke off from the 7th day Adventist group. There is no truth in this cult. DO research since your on the internet already!

People just don't seem to get it... if you're not a JW, you're likely to understand what that orgazination is all about. Very small number of JWs wake up, like Lou did... I was baptized at the age of 16, but I strayed two years ago (i'm 26 now)... I just don't feel like returning to that place anymore... the emptiness, the feeling of sadness is overwhelming... all the false profecies and stuff... I really hope Lou's story help everyone (me included) to make a wise decision to leave the WBTS cult for good... may God help us!

I'm studying the Bible with JW's and I take my studies very seriously as I want to be 100% sure that what I believe is the complete undeniable, verifiable truth.

I have read some past publications of the JW's and I'm disturbed by the following points. I spoke to an elder about these matters and I noticed he became very defensive and told me I'm developing a critical attitude. These concerns came from reading the JW publications directly.

01. C.T. Russell (1st president) said in a WT that reading the Bible alone is dangerous without the WT publications. How is that possible? Why would God inspire a book that is impossible to read and understand without the WT publications?

02. The WT stated in the finished mystery that the time of the end started in 1799. It also stated that 1874 marked the invisible return of Christ and that he began to rule invisibly in 1878. Also stated as fact was that the end would come in 1914. All these dates have changed many many times. If God directs the JW's, how is it possible that they constantly change their doctrines? Where and how did they come up with these doctrines? Men or God?

03. End of the world predictions: The Watchtower Society had predicted the end of the world for 1914, 1915, 1918, 1925, 1941, 1975 and most recently in 2000 in the 1/1/89 Watchtower (later changed in the bound volume). Where did they get these ideas.....from GOD or men?

04. The Watchtower Society built a mansion in San Diego, California called Beth Sarim (house of princes). The book Salvation page.311 and brochure Millions now living will never die p.89 & 90 stated that the prophets of old will live there once resurrected. The only one who enjoyed that mansion along with two 16 cylinder Cadillacs was J.F.Rutherford second President of JW's. Where on earth did Jehovah's Witnesses get these conclusions and at the same time tell the world if anyone doesn't believe them they will be destroyed at Armageddon?

05. Why is the verse at Deuteronomy 18:20-22 ignored by Jehovah's Witnesses? There it clearly states what a false prophet is. Yet that verse is not mentioned in the Reasoning book at all!! Why????

06. Why aren't JW's allowed to ask their leaders any question that troubles them? JW's are obligated to accept any doctrine, policy and interpretation that comes from the Governing Body even if it contradicts scripture!! The unity and love that JW's show is superficial and conditional. The moment someone disagrees with the Governing Body they are disfellowshipped and called evil names such as mentally diseased and apostate.

07. Child Molestation.... JWs are quick to point the finger at the Catholic Church about their handling of Child molesters. However,the policies of the JWs are the same! They do not report to authorities unless required by law. They do not inform the Congregation members if there's a molester in their midst. Elders are told to call the WT legal Dept instead of calling the police first. Recent lawsuits against the WT for protecting molesters include Candace Conti, Gonzalo Campos, Osbaldo Pardon and many others. In 2015, in Australia the Royal Commission convened and brought to light over 1000 cases of Child molestations that were not reported to authorities by the JWs in a span of 50 yrs.
JWs elders were instructed in a letter dated 03/14/1997 to send to Brooklyn headquarters the names of all members who have confessed or been accused of molesting children. Now a court in California (in the Osbaldo Pardon case; Irwin Zalkin attorney for plaintiff) is demanding that they hand over that database of Child molesters and the WT REFUSES TO COMPLY. Every day that goes by without them turning in that list carries a $4,000 fine. What about Romans chapter 13 about obeying the authorities?! Hypocrisy??!!!

I always welcome JWs when they knock, and try to give them the Catholic perspective. One older man in particular - I'll call him Michael - is a former Catholic openly disdainful toward the Church and Her members. He left his faith due to the Church's support of the military. He is mocking, insulting, and interrupts everyone at every turn, even his fellow JWs. I'm struggling with the temptation to refuse him hospitality the next time he knocks. For having found what he thinks is "the truth" he is an incredibly unhappy man, and lashes out at everyone.

A young JW husband and wife "Anthony" and "Jean" have recently visited a few times, and seem genuinely interested in Catholic facts. My response to their direction to read and discuss a single verse, is to continue reading the next verse, and the next, to give context.

Yesterday, unfortunately, "Michael" was with "Anthony" and didn't let either him or me express any thoughts. "Michael" then ended the visit, claiming to have another appointment, and unfortunately took "Anthony" with him, but not before Anthony said he'd be back next Wednesday. Praise Jesus!

I would really like to continue with "Anthony" and his wife but not with "Michael" in the room. I don't want to give up on MIchael - he seems to be a very unhappy person - but could use some guidance.

Its so funny how these JWs and other protestants go on about the Bible so much - little do they realize (and goes to show their tremendous lack of understanding and truth), that if it was not for the Catholic Church, there would be no Bible!

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Mr.Richard Lane preached at our church St.Elizabeth here in Palm Coast Florida... I Love being Catholic always have been loud and proud of my religion.. After hearing Mr.Lane i was even prouder to proclaim my…Written by Maria